In essence, it’s all about developing fearlessness he says and I am keen to take him up on his advice. That and to try to extricate myself as much as possible from the capitalist-consumerist treadmill that buoys our new dictator in chief and the entire military-industrial complex up. And how do I imagine that?

Simply by consuming less and renouncing more. The Venerable tells us that the Lord Buddha spoke of a time when the good people would withdraw from the “dogfight” and leave the leadership roles to deluded and corrupt people. Clearly this is what is happening and, beyond practicing the Dhamma, there is precious little to be done for it.

May I help where I can and may I develop a fearlessness and courage that no army can overwhelm nor bars imprison.